KILLJOY housing chiefs have told football-mad council tenants not to cheer England too loudly during the World Cup.

Residents in Salford were astonished to receive the letters warning them to keep the noise down while watching the tournament on TV from this weekend.

Officials say the request has been made because "not everyone is a football fan" - and anyone who disturbs the peace could be in breach of their tenancy agreement.

Armchair fans have slammed the warning as "outrageous" and said they now fear they could be evicted just for backing their countrymen in Germany.

The letters were distributed to residents in Hough Walk, Lower Broughton, by New Prospect Housing, the firm which runs Salford's council houses.

Last week New Prospect Housing banned its drivers from flying England flags from vans and cars because it was a breach of "health and safety."

Letter

Cath Williams, the firm's tenancy management officer, wrote the letter to residents in Hough Walk which was delivered earlier this week.

The letter states: "I would like to ask that if you are a football fan or are following the World Cup competition, that should your team win any matches, that you show consideration towards neighbours and the local community, as not everyone is a football fan and not everyone will be wanting to celebrate or be disturbed by ongoing celebrations."

Resident Peter Kay, 53, thought the letter was a joke when it arrived on Wednesday morning.

He said: "I'm not really a football fan but I want to support my country and now I'll be scared of cheering. They're saying we can't enjoy ourselves. They've gone too far - it's pathetic."

Councillor Karen Garrido, leader of the city's Tory opposition, said: "This is disgusting. What on earth are they doing? They are telling people how to behave in their own homes. They should get a life. I will be cheering very loudly for England in Worsley."

A New Prospect spokesman said: "We wish the England team every success and do not wish to stop anyone from enjoying the World Cup. However, we do want to make sure that it is a fun time for everyone.

"We have sent out letters to specific streets where we received complaints of noise nuisance during the last World Cup and other recent sporting events, to try and ensure residents do show consideration for their neighbours."

IS the council right to ask residents to be quiet during World Cup matches? Have your say.